Protecting Her Pigg

Arson and fire bring them together, but what will cause the most damage…the arsonist bent on revenge or their own stubborn ways?

EXCERPT:

Flames danced along the wall, creating a surreal painting of reds and oranges. The beauty of my work filled my chest with pride. Maniacal laughter echoed in my ears. I recognized my own hilarity and covered my mouth to stop the sound from escaping. Inhaling the scent of gasoline, I pulled off the gloves and tossed them into the flames.

“I’ll huff and I’ll puff and I’ll blow your house down.”

The sounds of sirens resonated in the distance. Running toward the gathering crowd, I stood to watch over my latest creation. Glee filled my heart as I ached to proclaim my masterpiece. Pulling the baseball cap lower over my eyes to hide my elation, I stood watch, hoping my adversary would arrive in time to see magnum opus.

***

When the call came, I pulled my long hair into a ponytail and quickly left for the crime scene. I’d constantly felt I needed to be tougher and better than everyone else, especially as a girl in a man’s world. I didn’t want any person to second-guess why I’d been given the job. No one could accuse me of nepotism.

Arriving on the scene, the smell of smoke with the tang of gasoline assaulted my lungs. The building was a total loss. It bothered me to see something once so beautiful destroyed.

“Sir, you can’t be here,” the officer I’d assigned to the perimeter yelled.

Turning toward the commotion, I witnessed a tall, dark-haired man storming toward me with violence in his approach. Sizing up the advancing danger, I threw my shoulders back and met the man halfway.

“This is my building. Who are you, and what do you know so far?” His gravel voice caused goose bumps to form on my skin.

“I’m sorry, Mr…?” Up close, the man took my breath away. His features weren’t “pretty boy” beautiful, but striking. Chiseled chin, full lips, slightly curved nose. Must have been broken at one time.

“Pigg, Lucas Pigg. And you are?”

Caught staring at his lips, I almost missed the question. “I’m Lily O’Neill, chief arson investigator. We don’t know much so far. I’ve only begun my investigation. This wasn’t an accident. It was set with gasoline as the accelerant. The smell is noticeable. I have some questions for you. I’d like to meet you in my office to talk.” No matter how good-looking, Mr. Pigg was my first suspect.

“You can’t think I did this.” Anger tinged his voice.

Even with my small stature, I wasn’t about to back down. Stepping closer, our gazes met and tempers flared.

“Look, Mr. Pigg.” My own voice grew louder, like a barking dog defending its territory. “Everyone’s a suspect until they’re eliminated. I’m looking forward to asking you some questions. You may want to bring your lawyer.”

His eyes narrowed. “Fine. I’ll meet you in your office.”​With his declaration, I turned toward the scene and sought out the fire chief. No man’s going to stop me from doing my job.